How can the aquatics industry leverage technology to optimize operations and communication?

That question keeps Chris Griffith up at night. Aquatics director
for the city of Paul’s Valley, Okla., Griffith has loved being
in the water since childhood. His first job in the industry was
lifeguarding at the Slippery Falls Scout Ranch.

Today, he is making his mark, combining a love of aquatics with a
passion for technology. He serves as moderator of LifeguardLink,
Aquatics International’s digital space for all
things lifeguarding.

Griffith’s education makes him particularly well-suited for
that job. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, he has a degree
in marketing.

“Being a marketing major has made me far more active on the
social networks because I understand that’s where the
industry is heading,” Griffith says.

LifeguardLink launched in 2011, and with Griffith’s help
it’s a community of 150-plus members and growing. It’s
a place for guards to network on a national and international
level, and right now there’s nothing like it, Griffith
says.

This opportunity to connect with others is particularly important
for young professionals, he adds, because it gives them a place to
find others who share a passion for aquatics.

At 23, Griffith is a young professional himself, but he’s
developed a strong foundation as a member of the National Recreation and Park
Associationand the Oklahoma Recreation and Park Society He’s also
a charter member of the Association of Aquatic Professionals.

Looking ahead, he hopes to see LifeguardLink expand to include more
for full-time professional guards,and more off-season training and
information to help seasonal guards stay informed.

Mobile technology is another area where he sees
possibilities.

With Griffith and others like him to lead the way, the potential
seems endless.